Crawley MP, Henry Smith, has joined the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC), Age UK and older people’s campaigner Baroness Joan Bakewell at an event to celebrate the success of Senior Railcards.

More people than ever aged 60 or over own the Railcard and which offers an third off the cost of most standard and first class train tickets on the National Rail network.

Complaining of aching bones as he got up to comment, Henry said:

“I know that many pensioners in Crawley value their Senior Railcard. That’s why I was delighted to show my support for the Railcard and congratulate ATOC and train companies on their record breaking year.”

New research by ATOC shows that over the last six years:

-       the number of people using a Senior Railcard has increased up by almost 50%, to hit a record 1.1million last year

-       journeys made with the Railcard have risen by 74%, to more than 25million in 2012

-       the average distance travelled with a Senior Railcard is now 71 miles, 15% further than in 2006

Around one third of the Railcard holders say they use it to visit friends and relatives and one out of 10 for a day out.

Michael Roberts, ATOC Chief Executive, said: 

“I was delighted Henry was able to join us to celebrate the success of Senior Railcards. Train companies are committed to responding to passengers’ needs and will continue to work closely with Henry and older people’s campaign groups to make rail travel even more accessible for the over 60s.”

Follow Henry daily via: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp; www.twitter.com/HenrySmithMP;  http://www.youtube.com/user/HenrySmithMP; or www.henrysmith.info.